McLaren counts itself as one of the most exclusive brands in the world and that status comes with certain standards and expectations. One such expectation is to have an extensive personalization division that can distinctive and dramatic design offerings that further enhance the exclusivity of its models. This is where McLaren Special Operations (MSO) takes center stage and just in time for the holidays and the coming new year, MSO is loading up on a lot of new extra options and accessories for its MSO Defined line that’s poised to take McLaren personalization to a whole new level.

The new wave of MSO options area available for current and future owners of any of McLaren’s Super Series models, which includes a wide range of models that run from the 12C to the 675LT. The objective here is to give these new models a fresh shine, so to speak. Whether it’s through exterior upgrades or interior amenities, the objective has always been the same: make these models more personalized to reflect the tastes and preferences of its owners.

For the exterior, McLaren Super Series owners can expect even more carbon fiber options because carbon fiber is awesome. Among the notable additions include a carbon fiber rear diffuser that provides improved airflow and weight reduction. There’s also new carbon fiber mirror arms that can be combined with matching mirror casings and just in case it doesn’t get mentioned, carbon fiber louvered front fenders are also on the MSO Defined menu now. This particular component is an important one since it saves close to 0.5 kilos (1.1 pounds) over the standard version. It’s also a nice nod to the automaker’s storied history in motor racing, which made good use of the material. Last but certainly not leased is a carbon fiber hood that provides visual and performance enhancements for any McLaren Super Series model that gets them.

Move to the interior and the carbon fiber treatment continues in waves. Carbon fiber vent bezels and sill tops are particularly noteworthy, in large part because they add more emphasis to the sporty and driver-focused architecture of a McLaren’s interior. The same can be said for the carbon fiber steering wheel and extended carbon fiber gear shift paddles. Not only are they awesome to look at, but their lightweight nature helps drop even more pounds from the car’s weight. Remember, a lighter McLaren is a faster McLaren.

The extended menu of upgrades included in the McLaren Super Series MSO Defined range should serve McLaren owners well, especially when they’re in the market for more exclusive options to add to their already exclusive supercars. Why even bother go the aftermarket route when McLaren’s MSO Defined range has what you’re looking for, right?

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Why it matters

I’m never going to be able to afford a McLaren, so I can only look longingly at what McLaren’s MSO Defined program is offering here. I have to admit that if I did own a 12C or a 650S or a 675LT, the options that MSO are offering are pretty enticing.


The cosmetics are definitely there on the surface. I mean who doesn’t want carbon fiber on their car, and loads of it? I certainly wouldn’t complain and I’m willing to guess that most of you wouldn’t either. Plus, there’s that extra benefit of improving a car’s performance without even touching the engine. Remember, a lighter McLaren is a faster McLaren.

In a nutshell, the growing MSO Defined portfolio is McLaren’s way of giving its customers more opportunities to personalize their cars based on their whims and needs. The expanded portfolio provides more choices to do that and rest assured, current and future owners of McLaren Super Series models will no doubt look at these new features with great interest.

That's good news for McLaren and bad news for the owners' bank accounts.